Tattoos have become a popular personal decoration, found on roughly 10 percent of Americans. They are especially popular amongst young adults, with nearly 40 percent of Americans between the ages of 20 and 25 sporting tattoos. The rising popularity of tattoos begs the question: are they safe?
Widely Varying Opinions
The exact safety of tattoos varies greatly according to each source asked. The tattoo industry assures that tattoos are safe; however, there is minimal regulation of standards within the industry. Epidemiologists at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center have found a connection between commercial tattoo parlors and a heightened risk of hepatitis C. The FDA says that although the ink used for tattoos has not been approved, there is no inherent danger. According to dermatologists, tattoos themselves are not dangerous, but many individuals end up regretting their tattoos.
CDC: “All Needles Carry Risk of Infectionâ€
The Center for Disease Control has stated that tattoos are typically safe, although any needle insertion – and the breaking of the skin involves – carries a risk of infection. To further minimize the occurrence of infection, tattoo parlors use a new needle for each client and provide detailed after-care instructions. Tattoos acquired in prison are said to be risky; however, those acquired in standard tattoo parlors should be relatively safe. The most prevalent risk associated with tattoos is regret, especially if the tattoo contains the name of a former flame.
Regretting Your Tattoo? We Can Help You!
If you have a tattoo that you wish you never got, we can help you. At Advanced Dermatology, PC, our board-certified dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons are trained in the latest lasers utilized for tattoo removal. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn your options to getting rid of that tattoo. Our nine conveniently located offices welcome patients from Queens, Long Island (Roslyn/Albertson, West Islip, Commack, East Setauket), New York City, Bergen County, NJ, Union County, NJ, and all surrounding areas.